Foot problems in elderly are common because of their risk to infection. As elderlies age, their feet tend to spread and lose the pads that protect the bottom of their feet and help them walk and balance their body. It even gets worse when they carry extra weight.

What are the most common foot problems?

This article will highlight some of the most common foot concerns, their causes, and when to seek treatment. Athlete’s foot . Athlete’s foot is most commonly caused by walking in damp areas. Bunions . Diabetic neuropathy. Ingrown toenails . Plantar fasciitis . Blisters . Corns . Heel spur .

What causes foot pain in elderly?

The major risk factors for the development of foot pain are increasing age, female sex, obesity, depression and common chronic conditions such as diabetes and osteoarthritis, while the most commonly reported foot disorders by older people are corns and calluses, nail disorders and toe deformities.

How do you treat elderly feet?

To keep aging feet healthy and reduce the risk of health issues indirectly caused by foot problems, use these 8 essential senior foot care tips. Keep feet clean. Moisturize feet . Trim nails. Monitor sores. Get properly fitting footwear. Get medical attention when needed. Address pain. Promote circulation.

How do I know if my foot pain is serious?

Seek immediate medical attention if you: Have severe pain or swelling. Have an open wound or a wound that is oozing pus. Have signs of infection, such as redness, warmth and tenderness in the affected area or you have a fever over 100 F (37.8 C) Are unable to walk or put weight on your foot .

What is a Morton’s toe?

Morton’s toe , or Morton’s foot , describes the condition where your second toe looks longer than your big toe . It’s very common: Some people just have it and others don’t. In some people, Morton’s toe may increase the chances of calluses forming on the sole of your foot and some other foot pains.

Can foot pain be a sign of heart problems?

Burning or Swelling in the Feet Sensations of burning or visible swelling could indicate kidney, heart or circulatory problems . Foot Pain and burning in the feet is an indication that your circulation is not functioning well. If this ever happens to you, make an appointment with your podiatrist right away.

How can I stop nerve pain in my foot?

To help you manage peripheral neuropathy: Take care of your feet , especially if you have diabetes. Check daily for blisters, cuts or calluses. Exercise. Quit smoking. Eat healthy meals. Avoid excessive alcohol. Monitor your blood glucose levels.

Why do the bottoms of my feet hurt so bad?

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the fibrous tissue (plantar fascia) along the bottom of your foot that connects your heel bone to your toes. Plantar fasciitis can cause intense heel pain.

What causes pain under the feet?

Injury, overuse or conditions causing inflammation involving any of the bones, ligaments or tendons in the foot can cause foot pain . Arthritis is a common cause of foot pain . Injury to the nerves of the feet may result in intense burning pain , numbness or tingling (peripheral neuropathy).

Is pain in your feet a sign of diabetes?

Diabetic neuropathy can cause numbness or tingling in your fingers, toes, hands, and feet . Another symptom is a burning, sharp, or aching pain ( diabetic nerve pain ). The pain may be mild at first, but it can get worse over time and spread up your legs or arms.

How do I keep my feet healthy as I age?

You should tend to your feet regularly. Wash your feet every day and after exercising, and be sure to dry them thoroughly. Apply a moisturizer to prevent cracking of the skin.

What causes thick toenails in elderly?

As we age, our toenails – and fingernails – slow their growth rate, and the nails thicken because the nail cells, called onychocytes, sort of pile up. Fingernails appear to thicken less, probably because we tend to them more often with filing and buffing, which thins them.

What is the best painkiller for foot pain?

Oral analgesic medications such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) or aspirin are often the first line choice for quick relief of foot pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs ) such as ibuprofen or naproxen are also often recommended and can help to reduce inflammation at the same time.

Should I go to the ER for foot pain?

Go to an urgent care or ER for foot pain if: You have severe pain and swelling. You are unable to walk or put weight on your foot . Have an open wound ( Emergency room only) Have signs of infection such as redness, warmth or tenderness ( Emergency room only)

When should I see a podiatrist for foot pain?

If you have any issues that involve the foot and or ankle—a sports injury, arthritis/joint pain , skin problems , etc. —a visit to the podiatrist is your best bet. A podiatrist is a specialist who manages and treats almost all symptoms that involve the ankle and/or the foot .